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3D Print Meetup Challenges
Welcome to our monthly 3D printing challenges! Each month features a unique theme designed to test different aspects of 3D printing skills, from material handling to design innovation.
Active Challenge
July 2026: "Scarf Seams"
Theme: Scarf Seam Placement & Settings
Key Details:
- Model: Sphere with scarf seam (max 75mm cubed)
- Goal: Master scarf seam placement and settings
- Focus: Share your settings and techniques for clean seams
Upcoming Challenge
August 2026: "[Theme TBD]"
Status: Planning in progress
Expected Timeline:
- Announcement: July meeting (July 2026)
- Submission Period: August 2026
- Judging: August 2026
Challenge Archive
2026 Challenges
| Month | Challenge Name | Theme | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | "Bring an Experiment" | Try something new | Archived |
| May | "Bring an Experiment (Round 2!)" | Try something new, crazy, or wild | Archived |
| June | "Show & Tell Extravaganza!" | Community Showcase | Archived |
| July | "Scarf Seams" | Seam Placement & Settings | Active |
| August | [TBD] | [TBD] | Planning |
2025 Challenges
| Month | Challenge Name | Theme | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| October | "Is it Glass or Clearly Natural?" | Transparency & Clarity | Active |
| November | [TBD] | [TBD] | Planning |
| December | [TBD] | [TBD] | Future |
How Challenges Work
Challenge Structure
Each monthly challenge includes:
- Specific theme focusing on different 3D printing aspects
- Clear requirements for models, materials, and techniques
- Multiple award categories for different achievements
- Community judging during show & tell sessions
- Documentation sharing for learning and improvement
Participation
- Open to all skill levels - beginners to experts welcome
- Bring your submission to the monthly meetup
- Share your process - settings, techniques, and lessons learned
- Vote on favorites during community judging
- Learn from others through shared experiences
Awards & Recognition
Each challenge features multiple ways to win:
- Technical excellence awards for best execution
- Innovation awards for creative approaches
- People's choice awards from community voting
- Category-specific awards based on challenge theme
- Social media features for all participants
Challenge Development
Suggesting Challenges
Community members can suggest future challenge themes:
- Submit ideas during meetup discussions
- Discord voting on proposed themes
- School partnership input for educational value
- Skill development focus areas
Challenge Template
For organizers developing new challenges, see our Challenge Template which provides the standard structure and guidelines for creating engaging monthly competitions.
Current Focus: Join us for the October transparency challenge and help shape November's theme!